Do you love pie? I do. I love apple pie, cherry pie, pecan pie, chocolate pie, blueberry pie . . . . well, the list goes on and on! This Thanksgiving I have every intention to eat as much pecan and pumpkin pie as I can eat. I might even grab a slice of sweet potato pie if it is an option. But there is one kind of pie that I would rather avoid at all costs . . . . humble pie! Have you ever heard that expression before? You know, “He (or she) had a nice slice of humble pie.” It tastes bitter. And it doesn’t wash down very easy. We don’t mind serving it, just not eating it! Who really wants a slice of humble pie?
There are times that God has a way of humbling us.I am reminded of the young preacher that was very successful as a circuit preacher. He went from town to town holding meetings and conducting church growth seminars. After a passionate message one evening in a large congregation he was stopped by a sweet elderly lady that had worshipped in that congregation for several years.She said, “You must be proud of your accomplishments.” The man smiled and replied, “Why, yes, I am.” “And you seem to be so proud of your successes in the church,” she stated. “Of course, I am,” the man quickly responded. After a brief pause she looked at him in the eyes and said, “Why is it that you take the glory for what God has done?” Ouch!But her point was clear: “God alone deserves the glory!”
Maybe you have said it or maybe someone has said it to you.“You are the reason this church is where it is today.” “You are the heart and soul of this business. They couldn’t make it without you.” “This ministry would not be here if it were not for you.” “He/she would never make it without you.” “No one is better than you.” It sounds so good. It feels nice, but somewhere tugging on the back of our mind we remember that Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (NKJV).
Sometimes Satan build us up into thinking that we really are the best. God wants us to be edified but He also wants, and might I add deserves, the credit for our good works. The result of good works is for men to glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). If we believe that we are the best, God may be waiting to serve us some humble pie. Remember the humble will be exalted (Luke 14:11). Have a great week and a wonderful Thanksgiving!
You are loved!
Dr. Ray Reynolds